Imagine the Difference 5K Run/Walk

Photos: Martha Ladd

WINNSBORO – Sunshine and good weather smiled on the 22nd annual Fairfield Behavioral Health Services 5KRun/Walk on Saturday. The race, initiated to bring awareness to the dangers of alcohol abuse, brought runners and walkers of all ages.

Naitonio Haire, left, finished first place overall. Sharonda Johnson, right center, was the top female runner.

Some came to win, and some came for the camaraderie.

There were 172 registered to participate, with 11 groups, five of which were churches. The run began at 8 a.m., and five minutes later the walkers set stride.

Naitonio Haire of Blythewood finished in first place overall in the run with a time of 23:09. Omar Armstrong finished second at 23:22. Sharonda Johnson of Blythewood was the top female runner. Susan Strausbaugh followed for second female finisher.

Yolanda Dodd, left, and Rickie Mozie finished first and second in the 1.8 mile walk.

Yolanda Dodd of Columbia and Rickie Mozie of Winnsboro finished first in the 1.8 mile walk.

The Bible Light Holiness Church in Ridgeway showed up with the largest group and the second place winner was the St. John Baptist Church in Jenkinsville. White Oak Baptist No. 1 had the third highest number of runners/walkers.

“It was a great time for everyone to come out and support the cause to prevent underage drinking and alcohol related car crashes,” BHS Executive Director Vernon Kennedy said following the race. “We want to encourage those who suffer from alcohol related issues to get help. That’s what this race is about every year – to recognize Alcohol Awareness Month, to raise awareness of the dangers and impact of alcohol abuse and underage drinking.”